Automated Caged Bird Spray Applicator System

ABSTRACT

The disclosure relates to a spray applicator system for accurately and precisely dosing liquid formulations, including vaccines and probiotic formulations, to caged avian animals. In particular, the disclosure relates to spray applicators, having improved acceptance by the avian animals, relative to more disruptive prior spray applicators. The disclosed automated caged spray applicator system is designed to attach to and function with automated poultry feeding systems, routinely used in poultry house settings.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 62/240,926, filed on13 Oct. 2015, and herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This application incorporates by reference herein all references citedherein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The disclosure generally relates to spray applicators for dosingvaccines and/or administering probiotics to caged avian animals. Inparticular, the disclosure relates to spray applicators having improvedacceptance by the avian animals, relative to more disruptive prior sprayapplicators. The disclosed automated caged spray applicator system isdesigned to attach to and function with automated poultry feedingsystems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Current spray application for caged birds requires the operator toeither push a cart with an attached tank, or, carry a backpack tankfilled with compositions, including vaccine compositions, and walk at acontrolled speed to evenly distribute the compositions to the cagedbirds. Both methods rely on a “mast and nozzle system,” whichdistributes the nozzles in such a way that they are roughly aligned witheach cage tier, to optimize the application of vaccine to each bird inthe cage. These methods are not without significant drawbacks. Forexample, the operator must push the cart (or walk with the pack) at anoptimum and consistent speed, both to ensure that the birds receive afull dose, and to minimize waste. As such, distribution, efficacy, andcost-effectiveness largely depend upon how quickly and consistently eachperson passes through a given poultry house, leading to significant andcostly farm to farm variation.

Another drawback to current spray systems stems from the variation inpoultry cage design. For example, some cages are not completelyvertical, but are instead more pyramidal in shape. In this case, thevertical mast of the current sprayer systems is not optimallycompatible, leading to waste and reduced vaccine efficacy. As aconsequence of this incompatible geometry, the cages closer to thebottom are much closer to the spray nozzles, such that the cages onhigher rows receive less vaccine than the cages on lower rows. Some ofthe cages at the highest levels do not even receive vaccine, whichbecomes particularly problematic at new facilities having more thaneight levels of cages. In addition, the birds often become frightened bythe current systems, and move the rear of the cages, thus increasingwaste and reducing effective vaccination. And while the cart system isworkable, it is bulky and can become cumbersome and difficult to movebetween houses and farms that have stairs, doorways, rough surfaces, andthe like. Finally, the space between cages where the cart must be pusheddiffers among houses/farms, and there are some farms where the path isnot level.

Accordingly, there is a real need in the poultry industry for improvedspray vaccinators, which do not suffer from the drawbacks mentionedabove. The field requires a spray vaccinator for caged birds havingimproved efficacy and reduced waste.

ADVANTAGES

The automated caged bird spray applicator would be provided as aversatile kit, which can be attached to an automated caged bird feedingapparatus, and easily transported to and from the poultry houses. Suchan automated system eliminates the variability inherent in the current“human-powered” caged bird spray vaccinators.

Further, since the birds are already accustomed to the automated feeder,and in fact, welcome its presence, the automated caged bird sprayapplicator will be far less likely to cause the birds to retreat to theback of the cages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the current invention is to provide an automated caged birdspray applicator system for delivering compositions, including vaccinecompositions, to caged avian animals. In particular, the disclosurerelates to spray applicators having improved acceptance by the aviananimals, relative to more disruptive prior art spray vaccinators. Thedisclosed automated caged spray applicator system is designed to attachto and function with automated feeding systems.

In an embodiment, the spray applicator system is provided as a compactportable system comprising nozzles, which mount directly onto anautomated feeder system via industrial grade magnets and adjustablenozzle retaining means, including holders, for optimum spray coverage.The movement of the feeder system along the rows of cages providesconsistent spray application and dosage by controlled speed of travel.

In an embodiment, nozzles may be positioned in optimal proximity anddirection, with respect to the birds, irrespective of the placement,orientation, or arrangement of the cages.

In a particular embodiment, birds that have moved to front of the cageto feed will now be vaccinated at the same time, thereby increasing thelikelihood that a given bird will receive an effective dose of vaccine.

In one embodiment of the spray applicator system, the system comprises acomposition-containing bag or reservoir, a pump, a battery, a pressureregulator, a pressure gauge, a battery meter, nozzles, means forsecuring/attaching nozzles to an automated feeder system, and allnecessary tubing for carrying fluid from the composition-containing bagto the pump and from the pump to the spray nozzle. The system mayinclude a portable case, which may house, contain or store all theabove-recited system components. The nozzle securing means may comprisea pivot arm, to provide a full range of motion to accommodate variousmounting angles. The nozzle securing means may comprise a strong magnet,operably connected to the nozzle.

In another embodiment, the composition bag may be reversibly attachedand/or suspended from the automated feeder. The nozzles may be placed atappropriate positions along the feeder such that vaccine is optimallydirected toward the birds.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including thebest mode thereof, to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forthmore particularly in the remainder of the specification, includingreference to the accompanying figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows components of an automated caged bird spray applicatorsystem 1 in accordance with this disclosure, comprising: a plurality ofnozzle assemblies 100, a portable pump system 200, and a portablebackpack system 300.

FIG. 2A shows a side view of a nozzle assembly.

FIG. 2B shows a top view of the nozzle assembly.

FIG. 2C shows a bottom view of the nozzle assembly.

FIG. 2D shows a side/front view of the nozzle assembly showing theportion of the nozzle assembly comprising the nozzle.

FIG. 2E shows a side/back view, showing the portion of the nozzleassembly comprising a magnet.

FIG. 3A shows a front view of the portable pump system.

FIG. 3B shows a back view of the pump system.

FIG. 3C shows a front/side view of the pump system.

FIG. 3D shows a side/front view of the pump system.

FIG. 4A shows the side of the portable backpack system 300 facing awayfrom the wearer.

FIG. 4B shows a side/angled view emphasizing the means for connectingconduits that transfer fluid from the pump system.

FIG. 5 shows a spray applicator system 1 of the disclosure reversiblyattached to an automated poultry feeding apparatus 400.

FIG. 6 shows another view of the spray applicator system.

FIG. 7 shows another view of the spray applicator system.

FIG. 8 shows the portable pump system in an open position, showing apump 210, a battery 240, an on/off switch 245, and internal conduits610.

FIG. 9 shows the portable pump system 200 in an open position, andloaded with a plurality of nozzle assemblies 100 and external conduits600.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an automated caged bird sprayapplicator system, which is adapted to work with automated poultry housefeeding systems, also known as feed trolleys.

In an embodiment, the disclosure provides an automated caged bird sprayapplicator system comprising a composition reservoir in the form of aback pack, along with a hand-held case which houses a pump, a regulator,a pressure gauge, a battery, a battery level indicator, an on/off switchand necessary plumbing. The case may also serve as a storage andtransportation unit for the nozzles and associated plumbing/tubing.

In a second aspect, the disclosure provides a method for using the sprayapplicator system. In an embodiment, a system operator places thebackpack directly on a preexisting automated poultry feeder system. Thebackpack reservoir may be filled with vaccine or other compositions,including probiotic compositions, prior to being carried to the house orfilled after the bag is reversibly affixed to the feeder system.

In another embodiment, the operator opens the hand-held case, removesthe nozzle assemblies and magnetically mounts said nozzle assemblies inappropriate locations of the feeder system, such that the direction ofthe nozzles may be adjusted to optimally deliver vaccine to the birds.Adjustment of the nozzles may be accomplished by moving themulti-positioning arm of said nozzle assembly and locking it into aposition. The skilled person using the disclosed spray applicator willunderstand how to position and direct the nozzle to maximize the amountof vaccine, or other composition, including a probiotic formulations,that is delivered to the birds.

In one embodiment, the nozzles are positioned such that they sprayvaccine directly at each cage as the feeder moves along rows of cages.In this position, the nozzles will optimally deliver vaccine whether thebirds are feeding from the feed track, or whether the birds are in therearmost portion of the cage. Wherever the birds are in their cages, thenozzles effectively deliver composition to the key target areas of thebirds: the eyes, nostrils and mouths.

Once the nozzles are positioned on the feeder, optimally directed towardthe cages, and locked into position, the operator may engage the feedersystem and activate the spray applicator system. In an embodiment, theoperator may adjust the pressure according to the speed of the feeder.As the feeder moves along the track, the birds move toward the front ofthe cage to feed by a learned habit known as memory trace. In in aparticular embodiment, the birds are simultaneously sprayed in thetarget areas by the optimally-positioned nozzles, delivering andoptimally amount of vaccine or other composition per unit time.

The Automated Caged Bird Spray Applicator is ideally suited for cagesystems that use automatic feeders or trolleys. It provides for optimalspray nozzle placement and for precise dosage regulation. There iscurrently no other such device on the market.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now in more detail to the drawings, in which like numeralsindicate like parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 illustrates anautomated caged bird spray applicator system 1 according to the instantdisclosure. The system may comprise: a plurality of nozzle assemblies100, a portable pump system 200, and a portable backpack system 300. Anysuitable conduits 600 may be employed to connect the components of thespray applicator system, including, but not limited to flexible hosesand tubing.

FIG. 2 provides an expanded view of a nozzle assembly 100 according tothe instant disclosure. Views shown include side (A); top (B); bottom(C); side/front, showing the portion of the nozzle assembly comprisingthe nozzle (D); and side/back, showing the portion of the nozzleassembly 100 comprising a magnet (E). The components of the nozzleassembly 100 are operably connected to one another as depicted in theseveral views of FIG. 2, and comprise the following: a nozzle 110; anozzle holder 101; a quick connect tubing connector 102 for receiving avaccine supply conduit; a stud 103 for mounting the nozzle body 111 to anozzle mount 115; two pivot balls 104, 116, each pivot ball connected toa stem 107, 117, respectively, and, each pivot ball 104, 116 configuredto be reversibly locked into place by a pivot arm clamp 106; a screw cap105 and a screw anchor 108, operatively connected to one another toallow for tightening and loosening of the pivot arm clamp 106 around thetwo pivot balls 104, 116; a nozzle body 111; and, optionally a wing/earmolded portion the nozzle holder 112.

As indicated in FIGS. 2A to 2E, the nozzle body 111 is operablyconnected to the first pivot ball 104 via insertion of stud 103 into anorifice of nozzle body mount 115 and attachment of nozzle body mount 115to pivot ball mount 109. On the portion of the nozzle assembly 100farthest away from the nozzle 120, the second pivot ball 116 isconnected to a nozzle assembly base 119 via stem 117 and support 118.The base 119 may contain a permanent magnet, for reversible attachmentof the nozzle assembly 100 to a suitable metal surface or frame,including to an automatic poultry feeder apparatus 400. Accordingly,clamp 106 forms a bridge between the first pivot ball 104 and the secondpivot ball 116, such that the reversible tightening or loosening of theclamp 106, by the combined actuation of the screw cap 105 and the screwanchor 108, allows the nozzle 120 to be reversibly locked into aplurality of possible positions. This feature advantageously provides auser with the ability to precisely control the direction of the spray,to accommodate variations in automated poultry feeders and poultry cageconfigurations.

Now that this disclosure has been made, the skilled person willappreciate many routine variations to the nozzle assembly 100. Forexample, instead of two pivot balls 104, 116 reversibly lockable by theaction of clamp 106, screw cap 105 and screw anchor 108, nozzle body 111could be attached to nozzle assembly base 119 via reversibly lockablehinges or other suitable reversible locking means. Other functionalequivalents are envisioned, provided that their structures allow for thenozzle to be positioned in a plurality of directions, to deliver thespray of liquid formulation to a desired locations.

The spray applicator system also comprises a portable pump system 200. Arepresentative example of the pump is shown in FIG. 3, and as indicatedby the multiple views, the components are operably connected to oneanother, and may comprise the following: a pressure gauge 201; outletfittings 202 that allow for operable connection to a conduit 600 (seeFIGS. 5 to 7), which conduit provides fluid communication between thenozzle assemblies 100 and the pump system 200; shut-off valves 203; apressure regulator 204; a recirculation outlet 205; a recirculationinlet 212; an outlet 206 from pump 210 inside the portable pump system200; strapping guide slots 207 for attachment to mounting straps; acarrying handle 208; and an enclosure clasp means 209 for keeping thepump system closed.

Moreover, the spray applicator system comprises a portable backpacksystem 300 comprising a tank/reservoir 310. As illustrated in FIGS. 4Aand 4B, the backpack comprises a side configured to face away from awearer or apparatus upon which the backpack is mounted, which comprisesconnecting means 303, 304, for connecting to conduits that transferfluid from the tank 310 to the pump system 200. The tank 310 may be madeof any suitable material, including flexible or rigid plastic materials,and may be filled with a wide variety of compositions, including vaccineand probiotic compositions.

In some embodiments, the components of the portable backpack system 300are operably connected to one another as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, andcomprise: strapping points 301 for attaching the tank 310 to mountingstraps; a wide mouth lid 302 for convenient filling of the tank 310; acirculation return inlet quick connect 303; and a quick-connect outlet304 for providing for fluid communication to the pump 210. The mountingstraps allow the tank system to be reversibly attached to a human weareror an apparatus, such as an automated poultry food trolley.

In some embodiments, the entire spray applicator system 1 may bereversibility installed on an automated poultry feeder 400 as shown inFIGS. 5 to 7. In particular embodiments, such as the one depicted inFIGS. 6 and 7, the spray applicator system is affixed to a three (3)tier cage automated poultry feeding trolley. The portable pump system200 and backpack system 300 may be suspended from the feeder 400 asdepicted in FIGS. 6 and 7, or, from any other suitable location.Moreover, the nozzle assemblies 100 may be positioned as shown or at anyother suitable locations. Routinely, an operator of the spray applicatorsystem 1 will position the nozzle assemblies 100 to optimize thedelivery of vaccine and/or probiotic formulations to the poultry, whichare housed within cages 500. Suitable conduits 600 provide for fluidcommunication between the backpack 300 and pump 210; and, between thepump 210 and nozzle assemblies 100.

In some embodiments, the spray applicator system may be used accordingto the following steps:

1) filling the tank 310 via tank opening 315 with liquid formulations,including vaccine and probiotic formulations;

2) fluidly connecting the tank 310 to the portable pump system 200 byconnecting a conduit from connecting means 304 to pump inlet 206;

3) fluidly connecting the pump system 200 to the nozzle assemblies 100by connecting a conduit 600 from pump outlet 206 to nozzle assemblies100;

4) mounting the portable pump system 200, the backpack assembly 300 andthe nozzle assemblies 100 to an automated poultry feeding apparatus 400;

5) adjusting the pump 210 pressure to provide a formulation flow ratethat is appropriate for the speed of the feeding apparatus;

6) allowing the feeding apparatus to move along the tiers of cagedbirds; and

7) switching the pump system 200 from a recirculation mode to a dispensemode, wherein when the pump system 200 is in the dispense mode, theformulation flows from the pump system 200, through the outlet 206,through conduit 600, and finally out of the nozzle assemblies 100. Theforegoing steps may be completed in any reasonable order.

In some embodiments, the invention provides an automated caged birdspray applicator system 1, configured to deliver to an avian animal inneed thereof a safe and effective amount of a liquid formulation. Theliquid formulation may include any formulation required to be deliveredto avian animals in the form of a spray of droplets. In particularembodiments, the droplets are less than about 1,000 nanometers (nm) indiameter. In other embodiments, the droplets may be less than about 900nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300nm, or less than about 200 nm. The skilled person will appreciate thatany desired droplet size may be obtained through the routine variationof pressure and/or nozzle type.

In some embodiments, the liquid formulation may be selected from animmunological formulation, a vaccine formulation, an antibioticformulation, an antifungal formulation, an anticoccidial formulation, aprobiotic or prebiotic formulation, a feed additive formulation andcombinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the spray applicator comprises:

-   -   a. a plurality of nozzle assemblies 100, fluidly connected to        one another and to a pump 210;    -   b. a portable pump system 200 comprising a pump 210, which is        fluidly connected to the nozzle assemblies 100 and to a supply        of the liquid formulation; and    -   c. a portable backpack system, which comprises a tank for        holding the supply of the liquid formulation 320, which tank 310        is fluidly connected to the pump;        -   wherein system components a, b, and c are configured to be            reversibly attachable to an automated poultry feeder system.

In some embodiments of the spray applicator system 1, each nozzleassembly 100 comprises the following:

-   -   a. a nozzle holder 101 (including a quick-release nozzle        holder), for holding a nozzle 120, and configured to be        reversibly attachable to a nozzle body 111;    -   b. a quick connect tubing connector 102 for connecting to a        liquid formulation supply line conduit 600, which connector 102        is either contiguously molded as part of the nozzle body 111,        or, is configured to be reversibly attachable to the nozzle body        111;    -   c. a stud 103 for mounting the nozzle body to a nozzle body        mount 115, wherein the stud 103 is either contiguously molded as        part of the nozzle body 111, or, is configured to reversibly        attach to the nozzle body 111;    -   d. two pivot balls 104, 116:        -   i. the first pivot ball 104 configured to be operably            connected to a pivot ball mount 109, and, configured to            function together with a clamp 106, to allow the nozzle 120            to be positioned in a plurality of directions;        -   ii. the second pivot ball 116 configured to be operably            connected to a support 118, and, configured to function            together with the clamp 106, to allow the nozzle 120 to be            positioned in a plurality of directions; and,        -   wherein the support 118 is configured to connect to a nozzle            assembly base 119, which base is configured to reversibly            attach to an automatic poultry feeder (for example, by the            further attachment to the base 119 of a permanent magnet);    -   e. a screw cap 105, configured to reversibly engage with a screw        anchor 108, to loosen or tighten a pivot arm clamp 106 around        the first pivot ball 104 and second pivot ball 116, wherein the        reversible loosening or tightening allows a user to lock the        nozzle assembly 100 such that the nozzle 120 points in a desired        direction;    -   f. a pivot arm clamp 106, configured to clamp around the first        and second pivot balls when the screw cap and the screw anchor        are sufficiently tightened;    -   g. two pivot ball stems 107, 117, the first stem 107 configured        to connect the first pivot ball 104 to the pivot ball mount 109;        and, the second stem 117 configured to connect the second pivot        ball to the support 118, which support connects the stem 117 to        the nozzle assembly base 119;    -   h. a screw anchor 108, configured to reversibly engage with the        screw cap 105; and    -   i. optionally, a wing/ear molded portion 112 of the nozzle        holder 101.

In some embodiments of the spray applicator system 1, the portable pumpsystem 200 comprises:

-   -   a. a pump 210;    -   b. a pressure gauge 201, which indicates the pressure of the        liquid formulation;    -   c. outlet fittings, which allow for operable connection to        conduit 600, which provides for fluid communication between the        nozzle assemblies 100 and the pump system 200;    -   d. shut-off valves 203;    -   e. a pressure regulator 204, for regulating the pressure of the        liquid formulation;    -   f. a recirculation outlet 205, which provides for recirculation        of the liquid formulation when the system 1 is not delivering        liquid formulation to the nozzle assemblies 100;    -   g. an inlet 206 from the pump 210 contained within the portable        pump system 200;    -   h. strapping guide slots 207 for attachment to mounting straps;        a carrying handle 208; and an enclosure clasp 209 for keeping        the pump system closed;    -   i. a power supply, for supplying power to the pump.

In some embodiments, the spray applicator system comprises:

-   -   a. a pump system 200 comprising: a pressure gauge 201; outlet        fittings 202 that allow for operable connection to a conduit        600, which provides for fluid communication between the nozzle        assemblies 100 and the pump system 200; shut-off valves 203; a        pressure regulator 204; a recirculation outlet 205; an inlet 206        from pump 210 inside the pump system; strapping guide slots 207        for attachment to mounting straps; a carrying handle 208; and an        enclosure clasp 209 for keeping the pump system closed; and    -   b. a plurality of nozzle assemblies 100, each assembly        comprising: a nozzle holder 101; a tubing connector 102        (including a quick-release connector); a stud 103 for mounting        the nozzle body 111 to a mount 115; two pivot balls 104, 116:        the first pivot ball 104 configured to be operably connected to        a pivot ball mount 109, and, configured to function together        with a clamp 106, to allow the nozzle 120 to be positioned in a        plurality of directions; the second pivot ball 116 configured to        be operably connected to a support 118, and, configured to        function together with the clamp 106, to allow the nozzle 120 to        be positioned in a plurality of directions; wherein the support        118 is configured to connect to a nozzle assembly base 119,        which base is configured to reversibly attach to an automatic        poultry feeder; and wherein the nozzle holder 101 optionally        comprises a wing/ear molded portion 112.

In some embodiments, the spray applicator system 1 is installed on anautomated poultry feeder 400.

In all of the embodiments, any connector may be of the “quick-connect”variety. Moreover, any depicted connector may be replaced with anysuitable connecting means (e.g. threaded connector, quick-connect,snap-connect, and the like).

In another aspect, the invention provides a nozzle assembly 100 for usewith the spray applicator system 1, comprising:

-   -   a. a nozzle holder 101, for holding a nozzle 120, and configured        to be reversibly attachable to a nozzle body 111;    -   b. a quick connect tubing connector 102 for receiving a conduit        that is fluidly connected to a supply of liquid formulation (for        example, via its fluid communication with a pump 210, which pump        210 is in fluid communication with the liquid formulation        supply), wherein the connector 102 is either contiguously molded        as part of the nozzle body 111, or, is configured to reversibly        attach to the nozzle body 111;    -   c. a stud (including a threaded stud) 103 for mounting the        nozzle body 111 to a nozzle body mount 115, wherein the stud 103        is either contiguously molded as part of the nozzle body 111,        or, is configured to reversibly attach to the nozzle body 111;    -   d. two pivot balls 104, 116:        -   i. the first pivot ball 104 configured to be operably            connected to a pivot ball mount 109, and, configured to            function together with a clamp 106, to allow the nozzle 120            to be positioned in a plurality of directions;        -   ii. the second pivot ball 116 configured to be operably            connected to a support 118, and, configured to function            together with the clamp 106, to allow the nozzle 120 to be            positioned in a plurality of directions; and,        -   wherein the support 118 is configured to connect to a nozzle            assembly base 119, which base is configured to reversibly            attach to an automatic poultry feeder (for example, by the            further attachment to the base 119 of a permanent magnet);    -   e. a screw cap 105, configured to reversibly engage with a screw        anchor 108 to loosen or tighten a pivot arm clamp 106 around the        first pivot ball 104 and second pivot ball 116, wherein the        reversible loosening or tightening allows a user to lock the        nozzle 120 into a desired position/orientation;    -   f. a pivot arm clamp 106, configured to clamp 106 around the        first pivot ball 104 and the second pivot ball 116 when the        screw cap 106 and the screw anchor 108 are engaged;    -   g. two pivot ball stems, the first stem 107 configured to        connect the first pivot ball 104 to the nozzle-side pivot ball        mount 109, which mount is configured to connect to the nozzle        body mount 115, and the second stem 117 configured to connect        the second pivot ball 116 to a support 118, which support is        configured to connect to the nozzle assembly base 119;    -   h. a screw anchor 108, configured to reversibly engage with the        screw cap 106; and    -   i. optionally, a wing/ear molded portion 112 of the nozzle        holder 101.

In another aspect, the invention provides a portable pump system 200 foruse with a spray applicator system 1, comprising:

-   -   a. a pump 210, in fluid communication with a liquid formulation        supply 320 and at least one nozzle assembly 100, and operable to        pump liquid formulation from the supply 320 to the nozzle        assembly 100;    -   b. a pressure gauge 201, in fluid communication with the pump        210, and configured to indicate the pressure of the liquid        formulation;    -   c. outlet fittings 202 that allow for operable connection to a        conduit, which provides for fluid communication between the        nozzle assembly 100 and the pump system 200;    -   d. shut-off valves 203, operable to reversibly interrupt the        flow of liquid formulation;    -   e. a pressure regulator 204, operable to regulate the pressure        of the liquid formulation;    -   f. a recirculation outlet 205, which provides for recirculation        of the liquid formulation;    -   g. an inlet 206 configured to be in fluid communication with the        liquid formulation supply, to allow the formulation to flow into        the pump 210;    -   h. strapping guide slots 207 for attachment to mounting straps;    -   i. a carrying handle 208; and    -   j. an enclosure clasp 209 for keeping the pump system closed.

In another aspect, the invention provides a portable backpack system 300for use with a spray applicator system 1, comprising:

-   -   a. a means for connecting conduits 600 that transfer liquid        formulation to the pump system 200;    -   b. strapping points 301 for mounting the backpack system 300 to        a poultry feeder 400;    -   c. a wide mouth lid 302 for receiving the liquid formulation;    -   d. a circulation return inlet connect 303; and    -   e. an outlet 304 for providing fluid communication to the pump        system 200.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method of applying aspray of liquid formulations, including vaccine and probioticformulations, to caged avian animals, comprising the steps of:

-   -   a. providing the spray applicator system of claim 1;    -   b. attaching the system to an automated poultry feeder 400;    -   c. directing the nozzles 120 in a direction that will        effectively deliver liquid formulation to the caged avians,        wherein the liquid formulation is delivered in the form of a        spray of sub-micron-sized droplets;    -   d. starting the spray applicator system 1; and    -   e. adjusting the pressure to precisely and accurately deliver to        the avians an effective amount of liquid formulation, thereby        applying the liquid formulation to the avians.

In some embodiments of the method, the pressure adjustment is made tooptimize the accuracy and precision of liquid formulation application oradministration, and is based upon the speed of the automated feeder.

In some embodiments, the pressure is increased for relatively fasterautomated feeders, and decreased for relatively slower automatedfeeders.

In some embodiments, the pressure automatically adjusts based upon thespeed of the automated feeder.

In other embodiments, when the poultry feeder comes to a stop, theliquid formulation is automatically switched from delivering to thenozzles (i.e. dispensing/application mode) to recirculating (i.e.recirculation mode).

The invention will now be recited in the following non-limiting claims.

What is claimed:
 1. An automated caged bird spray applicator system,configured to deliver to an avian animal in need thereof a safe andeffective amount of a liquid formulation selected from an immunologicalformulation, a vaccine formulation, an antibiotic formulation, anantifungal formulation, an anticoccidial formulation, a probiotic orprebiotic formulation, a feed additive formulation and combinationsthereof; wherein the spray applicator comprises: a. a plurality ofnozzle assemblies, fluidly connected to one another and to a pump; b. aportable pump system comprising a pump, which is fluidly connected tothe nozzle assemblies and to a supply of the liquid formulation; and c.a portable backpack system, which comprises a tank for holding thesupply of the liquid formulation, which tank is fluidly connected to thepump; wherein system components a, b, and c are configured to bereversibly attachable to an automated poultry feeder system.
 2. Thespray applicator system of claim 1, wherein each nozzle assemblycomprises the following: a. a nozzle holder, for holding a nozzle, andconfigured to be reversibly attachable to a nozzle body; b. a quickconnect tubing connector for connecting to a liquid formulation supplyline conduit, which connector is either contiguously molded as part ofthe nozzle body, or, is configured to be reversibly attachable to thenozzle body; c. a stud for mounting the nozzle body to a nozzle bodymount, wherein the stud is either contiguously molded as part of thenozzle body, or, is configured to reversibly attach to the nozzle body;d. two pivot balls: i. the first pivot ball configured to be operablyconnected to a pivot ball mount, and, configured to function togetherwith a clamp, to allow the nozzle to be positioned in a plurality ofdirections; ii. the second pivot ball configured to be operablyconnected to a support, and, configured to function together with theclamp, to allow the nozzle to be positioned in a plurality ofdirections; and, wherein the support is configured to connect to anozzle assembly base, which base is configured to reversibly attach toan automatic poultry feeder (for example, by the further attachment tothe base of a permanent magnet); e. a screw cap, configured toreversibly engage with a screw anchor to loosen or tighten a pivot armclamp around the first pivot ball and second pivot ball, wherein thereversible loosening or tightening allows a user to lock the nozzleassembly such that the nozzle points in a desired direction; f. a pivotarm clamp, configured to clamp around the first and second pivot ballswhen the screw cap and the screw anchor are sufficiently tightened; g.two pivot ball stems, the first stem configured to connect the firstpivot ball to the pivot ball mount; and, the second stem configured toconnect the second pivot ball to the support, which support connects thestem to the nozzle assembly base; h. a screw anchor, configured toreversibly engage with the screw cap; and i. optionally, a wing/earmolded portion of the nozzle holder.
 3. The spray applicator system ofclaim 2, wherein the portable pump system comprises: a. a pressuregauge; b. outlet fittings, which allow for operable connection to aconduit, which provides for fluid communication between the nozzleassemblies and the pump system; c. shut-off valves; d. a pressureregulator; e. a recirculation outlet, which provides for recirculationof the liquid formulation when the system is not delivering liquidformulation to the nozzle assemblies; f. an inlet from the pumpcontained within the portable pump system; g. strapping guide slots forattachment to mounting straps; a carrying handle; and an enclosure claspfor keeping the pump system closed.
 4. The spray applicator system ofclaim 1, wherein: a. the pump system comprises: a pressure gauge; outletfittings that allow for operable connection to a conduit, which providesfor fluid communication between the nozzle assemblies and the pumpsystem; shut-off valves; a pressure regulator; a recirculation outlet;an inlet from pump inside; strapping guide slots for attachment tomounting straps; a carrying handle; and an enclosure clasp for keepingthe pump system closed; and b. the a nozzle assembly comprises: anozzle; a nozzle holder; a quick connect tubing connector for vaccinesupply line; a stud for mounting the nozzle body; two pivot balls, eachconnected to a pivot ball stem; a screw cap and a screw anchor, operablyconnected to allow for tightening and loosening of a pivot arm clamp; apivot ball mount; a nozzle body; and optionally a wing/ear moldedportion of the nozzle holder.
 5. The spray applicator system of claim 1,wherein the system is installed on an automated poultry feeder.
 6. Thespray applicator system of claim 2, wherein the system is installed onan automated poultry feeder.
 7. The spray applicator system of claim 3,wherein the system is installed on an automated poultry feeder.
 8. Thespray applicator system of claim 4, wherein the system is installed onan automated poultry feeder.
 9. A nozzle assembly for use with the sprayapplicator system of claim 1, comprising: a. a nozzle holder, forholding a nozzle, and configured to be reversibly attachable to a nozzlebody; b. a quick connect tubing connector for vaccine supply line, whichis either contiguously molded as part of the nozzle body, or, isconfigured to reversibly attach to the nozzle body; c. a stud formounting the nozzle body to a first pivot ball mount, wherein the studis either contiguously molded as part of the nozzle body, or, isconfigured to reversibly attach to the nozzle body; d. two pivot balls:i. a first pivot ball, configured to be operably connected to the firstpivot ball mount, and, configured to allow the nozzle to be positionedin a plurality of directions; ii. a second pivot ball, configured to beoperably connected to a second pivot ball, which is configured to allowthe nozzle to be positioned in a plurality of directions, and,configured to connect to a nozzle assembly base, which base isconfigured to be reversibly attachable to an automatic poultry feeder;e. a screw cap, configured to reversibly engage with a screw anchor toloosen or tighten a pivot arm clamp around the first and second pivotballs, wherein the reversible loosening or tightening allows a user tolock the nozzle into a desired position; f. a pivot arm clamp,configured to clamp around the first and second pivot balls when thescrew cap and the screw anchor are engaged; g. two pivot ball stems, onestem configured to connect the first pivot ball to the nozzle-side pivotball mount, and a second stem configured to connect the second pivotball to the nozzle assembly base; h. a screw anchor, configured toreversibly engage with the screw cap; and i. optionally, a wing/earmolded portion of the nozzle holder.
 10. A portable pump system for usewith the spray applicator system of claim 1, comprising: a. a pump, influid communication with a liquid formulation supply and at least onenozzle assembly, and operable to pump liquid from the supply to thenozzle assembly; b. a pressure gauge, in fluid communication with thepump, and configured to indicate the pressure of the liquid formulation;c. outlet fittings that allow for operable connection to a conduit,which provides for fluid communication between the nozzle assembly andthe pump system; d. shut-off valves, operable to reversibly interruptthe flow of liquid formulation; e. a pressure regulator, operable toregulate the pressure of the liquid formulation; f. a recirculationoutlet, which provides for recirculation of the liquid formulation; g.an inlet configured to be in fluid communication with the liquidformulation supply, to allow the formulation to flow into the pump; h.strapping guide slots for attachment to mounting straps; i. a carryinghandle; and j. an enclosure clasp for keeping the pump system closed.11. A portable backpack system for use with the spray applicator systemof claim 1, comprising: a. a means for connecting conduits that transferfluid to the pump system; b. strapping points for mounting the backpackto a poultry feeder; c. a wide mouth lid for receiving a liquidformulation; d. a circulation return inlet quick connect; and e. anoutlet or quick-connect outlet for providing fluid communication to thepump.
 12. A method of vaccinating caged avian animals againstrespiratory pathogens, comprising the steps of: a. providing the sprayapplicator system of claim 1; b. attaching the system to an automatedpoultry feeder; c. directing the nozzles in a direction that willeffectively deliver liquid formulation to the caged avians, wherein theliquid formulation is delivered in the form of a spray ofsub-micron-sized droplets; d. starting the spray applicator system; ande. adjusting the pressure to accurately deliver to the avians aneffective amount of vaccine, thereby vaccinating the avian animal. 13.The method of claim 11, wherein the pressure adjustment is made tooptimize the accuracy and precision of vaccine administration, and isbased upon the speed of the automated feeder.
 14. The method of claim12, wherein the pressure is increased for relatively faster automatedfeeders, and decreased for relatively slower automated feeders.
 15. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the pressure automatically adjusts basedupon the speed of the automated feeder.